Hepatitis A Vaccination

When travelling to areas where Hepatitis A is highly prevalent, such as South Asia (specifically Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan), Sub-Saharan and North Africa, certain regions of the Far East (excluding Japan), South and Central America, and the Middle East, it is important to take precautions. 

The Hepatitis A vaccine is highly effective, providing over 95% protection after the first dose, with nearly 100% protection after the second dose. 

The Hepatitis A vaccine is known for its long-lasting immunity. After completing the two-dose series, most individuals have immunity that can last 20 years or more. 

Studies suggest that protection might even extend to a lifetime. This extended duration of immunity makes the Hepatitis A vaccine a valuable preventive measure, especially for travellers to endemic areas. 

Getting vaccinated before travelling is a key step in safeguarding your health, the health of those around you, and the public health of the communities you visit. For Hepatitis A, it is advisable to get the vaccine at least 10 days before departure. 

A consultation with our specialist travel nurse costs £20 for the first appointment and £10 for additional people and follow ups. The consultation is required to assess your travel plans and medical history and recommend vaccinations for your individual needs. A dose of the Hepatitis A vaccine costs £74, and 2 doses are required. The full course offers protection for 20+ years.  

Please see our full price list for details and speak to our staff in clinics about customised price plans for groups, families or when you book your full course in advance. 

The Hepatitis A vaccine is generally safe, with most side effects being mild and temporary. Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, headache, and mild fever. 

Rarely, more serious side effects can occur, such as allergic reactions. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about vaccine side effects. 

You can get the Hepatitis A vaccine in one of our flagship clinics with locations in: 

• London: Victoria, Moorgate, London Bridge 

• Hampshire: Winchester, Southampton 

• Hertfordshire: Hitchin 

• Sussex: Brighton & Hove, Worthing 

• Kent: Ashford 

You can also visit one of our local pharmacy partners by finding a clinic near you. 

Is Hepatitis A the same as Hepatitis B?

No, Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B are not the same. While both are liver infections caused by different viruses, they differ in transmission, symptoms, and prevention: 

Hepatitis A is typically spread through ingestion of contaminated food or water and is usually a short-term infection. It often resolves on its own without long-term liver damage, and a vaccine is available for prevention. 

Hepatitis B is transmitted through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood or sexual fluids. Unlike Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B can become chronic, leading to serious liver complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer. Vaccination is also available to prevent Hepatitis B. 

Both infections are preventable with vaccines, but they require separate vaccinations due to differences in their viruses. 

What are symptoms of Hepatitis A? 

Symptoms can vary from mild disease to severe disease. The disease is more likely to be severe in older adults and people with pre-existing liver disease. 

The incubation period is around 14-28 days. The virus is found in faeces during this time. 

Symptoms include mild fever, nausea/vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Jaundice may also occur. Infection with Hepatitis A results in lifelong immunity. 

What is the schedule for the Hepatitis A vaccine? 

The Hepatitis A vaccine requires 2 doses with a recommended 6–12-month interval between doses. The second dose can be given up to 3 years after the first dose. 

How does hep a interact with other vaccines? 

The Hepatitis A vaccine does not interact with other vaccines and can be given at the same time or any time before or after other vaccines including: 

• Typhoid-injection or oral vaccine 

• Hepatitis B vaccine 

• Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio vaccine 

• Rabies vaccine 

• Yellow fever 

• Oral Cholera vaccine 

• Japanese encephalitis vaccine 

• MMR combined vaccine and other vaccines in the routine UK immunisation schedule 

How often do you need a Hepatitis A booster? 

The Hepatitis A vaccine provides protection for 20+ years. After that, a booster dose is recommended. 

Can children have the Hepatitis A vaccine? 

Yes, there are Hepatitis A vaccines available specifically made for children. The age range varies slightly depending on the brand. The nurse will recommend the most suitable vaccine during the consultation. Further single booster doses are required after 20+ years for ongoing protection. 

Who is not able to have the Hepatitis A vaccine? 

The Hepatitis A vaccine is not recommended for individuals with a known severe allergy to any component of the vaccine or those who have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine. 

Additionally, those with acute, severe illnesses are advised to delay vaccination until recovery. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider, as the vaccine is usually given only if there is a high risk of Hepatitis A infection. 

Is the Hepatitis A vaccine free on the NHS? 

The Hepatitis A vaccine is available on the NHS for individuals at high risk of infection. This includes people travelling to countries where Hepatitis A is common, people with certain medical conditions, and individuals in certain occupations. For travel purposes, it’s advised to consult with a healthcare provider about your eligibility for an NHS-funded vaccine.

What additional precautions do I need to take to avoid Hepatitis A? 

To avoid Hepatitis A, especially when traveling to areas with higher risk, consider the following additional precautions: 

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom, before eating, and after handling food, especially in places where sanitation might be poor. 

• Use bottled or boiled water for drinking, brushing teeth, and making ice. Avoid tap water and be cautious with ice or drinks made from unknown water sources. 

• Choose thoroughly cooked foods and avoid raw or undercooked shellfish. Be cautious with fruits and vegetables that may have been washed in contaminated water—peel them yourself if possible. 

• While street food can be tempting, it may carry a higher risk of contamination in areas with Hepatitis A.